Economic History Of 18th Century Malabar:A Historiographic Critique

Abstract

The 18th century stands as a pivotal period in the history of Malabar, marked by significant transformations in trade, political power, and social dynamics. The economic history of 18th-century Malabar is deeply intertwined with the region's shifting political landscapes, evolving trade networks, and the role of various merchant communities. This study offers a historiographic critique of the existing scholarship on 18th-century Malabar, focusing on the aspects of economic history such as portrayal of merchant communities, trade networks, the impact of colonial interventions and the influence of local agencies in negotiating control over trade and resources. It also seeks to uncover biases and gaps in the prevailing narratives that shaped the historical understanding of this era. The paper examines how different historians interpreted the role of local merchants and political authorities in the regional and global trade systems, and how these interpretations have evolved over time. By engaging with recent interdisciplinary approaches, the study seeks to offer a more nuanced view of the economic history of Malabar, highlighting the interplay between indigenous merchant strategies, colonial appropriations, and the global context of trade. This critique aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of Malabar’s complex economic dynamics in the 18th century highlighting the indigenous attempts for capitalism and the need for a re-evaluation of established historical perspectives and a more inclusive and balanced historical narrative.